Veterinarians’ role in prescription-drug monitoring
At least 10 states are considering whether veterinarians should be included in prescription drug monitoring programs, which compile data on prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances in a statewide database. Proponents of these programs say they can help stem opioid abuse by preventing patients from receiving multiple prescriptions for these drugs. There is ongoing debate about whether veterinarians should be included in the requirements to report their prescribing and dispensing, and to consult the database before offering opioids to patients/clients.
Â
Last month, the Mississippi Board of Pharmacy finalized regulations that exclude veterinarians from mandatory participation in the program. A bill signed into law earlier this year in New Hampshire clarifies that veterinarians need to report their dispensing data every seven days instead of daily, as is required of other health practitioners